Dear Editor:

Wayne Farrin is running against Ed Polewarczyk for election to the Maine House of Representatives, serving District 47, which includes Alna, Jefferson, Whitefield, and Wiscasset. After my own successful career in science, engineering, and engineering program management, I can certainly appreciate Ed Polewarczyk’s professional accomplishments. That said, having spent hours working with both candidates over the last year year, and having acquainted myself with their priorities and records, the choice for me could not be clearer: Wayne Farrin is the only candidate whose lifetime of experience living, working, and volunteering right here in Lincoln County brings a unifying voice, experience, and accomplishments that reflect the values of District 47 voters.

Born and raised in South Bristol, Wayne understands through personal experience what it takes for so many hard-working residents to get by, and the challenges they face to get ahead. From early mornings as sternman on his father’s lobster boat, to over 11 years putting in long days in the Merchant Marine, Wayne knows the meaning of a hard day’s work. After decades of helping customers find homes here in Lincoln County, nobody better understands the many ways the housing affordability crisis affects families across the district, or is more suited to finding ways to ease those impacts. Beyond his work life, Wayne has extensive volunteer experience, including 10 years in the Coopers Mills Fire Department, and 20 years on the Jefferson budget committee. Add to these his many years of service on the Board of Directors for the Damariscotta Region Chamber of Commerce and the Central Lincoln County YMCA, and it’s clear that Wayne brings deep first-hand knowledge of the needs of District 47 residents, businesses, and local governments.

What I’ve learned about Wayne through my work with him is that he is a smart, hard-working, and genuine “Mainah” who finds common ground and works with people of all stripes.  He brings an easy smile and a wicked good sense of humor to interactions with people across the political spectrum, and will bring the pragmatic, roll-up-your-sleeves, “let’s get it done” spirit we need in the Maine State Legislature.

Ed Pentaleri

Alna